Bill > S4804

This bill requires all animal care facilities in New Jersey, including pet shops, grooming businesses, kennels, and dog daycares, to install and maintain video monitoring systems that continuously record areas where animals are kept, groomed, or handled by staff. The video monitoring systems must store footage for at least 30 days and make recordings available to state departments or law enforcement agencies upon request when investigating potential violations related to animal cruelty, consumer fraud, or other applicable laws. Cameras are not required in employee break rooms, restrooms, or administrative offices. The Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the Division of Consumer Affairs, will develop rules to implement and enforce the law. Facilities found in violation will face civil penalties of up to $500 for a first offense and up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses, with each day of violation considered a separate offense. The law aims to increase transparency and accountability in businesses that handle pets, providing a mechanism for investigating potential misconduct or mistreatment of animals.

Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4804